Frequently Ask Questions

Office

When I call during office hours, with whom will I speak? When you call the office during business hours, you will be referred to the person most capable of answering your questions, whether about scheduling, billing, test results, etc.

When I call at night or on the weekend, with whom will I speak? The doctors are on call nights and weekends for any emergency. By calling the office phone, our answering service will reach the doctor who will return your call. If you feel that you must go directly to the hospital Emergency Room, ask for our group upon arrival and we will be contacted.

How soon can I be seen by the doctor? If you are experiencing pain or bleeding or any symptoms of discomfort, one of our doctors will see you that day.

What happens after my consultation with the doctor? After your initial consultation, a medical assistant will escort you to an examining room and prepare you for examination.

Will the office examination be painful? We are sensitive to patient concerns relative to rectal examinations. Sigmoidoscopy is not usually considered to be a painful examination. It may be somewhat uncomfortable, similar to gas pain in the stomach, but lasts only for a minute or two.

Colonoscopy

Are there different types of preparations for my colonoscopy? Yes, we use three or four different cleansing methods – liquid laxatives, water and pills, or sometimes an enema – whatever preference suits the patient.

What time will I need to report to the hospital for my colonoscopy or outpatient surgery? If you have not been given a report time when we scheduled your procedure, you will receive a phone call on the day prior to your procedure. In the event that you do not receive a call, you may call our 24-hour answering service at (610) 433-7571.

May I take my medication the day of colonoscopy? Most medication may be taken with a few sips of water on the morning of the procedure. You will be instructed by the office as to which medications should be avoided.

May I drive myself home for the hospital after my colonoscopy or outpatient surgery? Due to the sedation given for the procedures, you are not permitted to drive yourself home. The hospital makes no exception to this rule.

How much time does the colonoscopy take? The procedure usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Total time from arrival to the hospital until your departure is approximately two hours.